Arisunime –– In Islam, making the correct niat (intention) for sunnah fasting on Monday and Thursday is essential for validity. Although the method is quite similar to other fasting practices, the specific formula differs according to the day. Below is a detailed guide in English, including step-by-step intention (niat) wording and proper procedure.
Intention for Monday Fasting
- In Arabic:
نَوَيْتُ صَوْمَ يَوْمِ الإِثْنَيْنِ سُنَّةً لِلَّهِ تَعَالَى - In Latin transcription:
Nawaitu shauma yaumal itsnaini sunnatan lillaahi ta’ala. - Meaning (English):
“I intend to fast on Monday as a sunnah for the sake of Allah.”
Intention for Thursday Fasting
- In Arabic:
نَوَيْتُ صَوْمَ يَوْمِ الْخَمِيْسِ سُنَّةً لِلَّهِ تَعَالَى - In Latin transcription:
Nawaitu shauma yaumal khomiisi sunnatan lillaahi ta’ala. - Meaning (English):
“I intend to fast on Thursday as a sunnah for the sake of Allah.”
Timing & Flexibility of the Intention
- The intention may be made at night before dawn (before Fajr).
- If one forgets to make the niat at night, it may still be made during the daytime, up until Dhuhr (midday/prayer time), as long as nothing voiding the fast has been done.
Procedure for Fasting on Monday & Thursday
- The fasting period starts at dawn (Fajr) and ends at sunset (Maghrib).
- Sahur (pre-dawn meal) is recommended for both spiritual blessing and physical strength.
- During the fast, one must abstain from eating, drinking, and any acts that invalidate fasting.***
